Dareu Dream vs. Invyr Holy Panda
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Invyr Holy Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch offer distinct advantages. The Dareu Dream switch is a light linear option known for its affordability and quality, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable option. On the other hand, the Holy Panda switch is revered for its sharp tactility and satisfyingly bright "clack" with each keystroke, appealing to tactile switch enthusiasts seeking pronounced feedback and acoustic resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Invyr Holy Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, the difference lies in their bottom housings.
The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Holy Panda. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. This split between housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While the Dareu Dream and the Invyr Holy Panda both offer unique qualities with their housing materials, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a consistent sharp, crisp, and resonant sound profile for both switches. However, the choice of nylon for the Dream's bottom housing results in a deeper, fuller sound, while the Holy Panda's nylon bottom housing creates a duller, rounder sound. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Holy Panda's actuation force is unknown. However, the Holy Panda has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the Dream's bottom out force is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Dream more appealing for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Holy Panda with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer users the choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and feedback when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience due to their similar travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
The Invyr Holy Panda has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holy Panda for $7.17.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch's sound characteristics are not specified. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard's construction, keycaps, and typing style.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for being easy-to-press and offering a gentle typing experience. With minimal force required for actuation, typing on these switches is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The tactile feedback of the Invyr Holy Panda switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a pronounced bump with moderate to firm actuation force. This blend of characteristics gives users an immersive and dynamic typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Dream linear switch offers a light and easy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch stands out for its pronounced tactile feedback and satisfying "clack" sound. Depending on personal preference, enthusiasts may opt for the Dream for a smooth typing experience or choose the Holy Panda for a more tactile and engaging typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Invyr Holy Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize affordability, a light linear feel, and easy typing experience with minimal force, the Dareu Dream switches may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you seek a unique typing experience with sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and a satisfyingly bright "clack" sound, the Invyr Holy Panda switches are sure to impress. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most - whether it's a smooth and light touch or a tactile and engaging feel.
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